Prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and their risk factors among the migrant tribal community of Delhi: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: The tribal population, constituting 8.6% of India’s population, faces a disproportionately high burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), accounting for 66% of deaths in tribal communities across twelve states. This study aims to assess the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension (HTN), and their risk factors among the tribal population in South Delhi. Materials and Methods: A 2-year (2019–2021) cross-sectional study among 569 migrant tribals collected sociodemographic and health data via a validated questionnaire. Diabetes and HTN were assessed, and blood samples were analyzed. STATA 14.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Data from 15 tribal communities showed that most were Pahadia Rana (38.8%), Hindu (96.3%), married (63.8%), and illiterate (62.6%), with 66.1% in nuclear families and 59.8% earning ₹5001–₹10,000 monthly. Common risks included smoking (18.1%), low fruit intake (76.6%), and inactivity (81.1%). HTN (4%) and diabetes (5%) were infrequent, but biochemical abnormalities such as elevated urea (79.0%), uric acid (37.7%), and abnormal liver enzymes were common, particularly among females. The unexpected coexistence of low measured prevalence of diabetes and HTN alongside high rates of biochemical abnormalities suggests the presence of early metabolic stress or under-detection of chronic conditions, warranting further longitudinal research. Conclusion: Although limited by the generalizability of the findings, these results emphasize the need for focused interventions to address the growing NCD burden in this specific urban tribal community.